As some of you may know, I am a freelance editor and writing coach. I also teach creative writing to kids. Right now, I’m fairly low-profile and I’ve only been finding clients through word-of-mouth. This is because I haven’t had the time to invest in marketing and getting my name and my business out there.
But I told myself that once the school year begins I am going to get my business off the ground and really take off!
Microsoft Office Clip Art
My muse has come up with one name for the business. Just one. I told her that I need to have some more choices, but she won’t budge. It’s almost as if she went on strike all because I’m not super crazy about what she came up with:
Scribbling Squid Writing Studio.
It’s cute. Maybe too cute. It’s also got a lot of ‘sssssssssssss’ going on. And the squid part. Well, that’s just got everyone I’ve polled scratching their heads–they can’t understand the purpose behind the word squid. (Bonus points for anyone who gets squid.)
But on the favorable side, it’s easy to remember. It’s fairly clever. It’s unique. And the name is related to the nature of the business.
So, I’m split down the middle and I don’t trust my judgment on this one anymore.
I need your advice!
If you like Scribbling Squid Writing Studio, then please let me know. If you don’t, I still want to know (my feelings will not be hurt). And by all means, if anyone has another suggestion for a name, please write it in the comments section.
Some extra details: This will be a business that I run from home, but I plan to eventually operate in a public setting (leasing office space) where I can run workshops and writing classes to kids and adults. I will also have a website where I will publicize kids’ stories, hold writing challenges and contests, advertise community events related to writing and reading. I have my heart set on using ‘Writing Studio’ somewhere in the name of the business.
Thank you in advance for your help. I’m hoping that with your brilliant ideas coming in, my muse will reboot out of her need to remain competitive.
I quite like it – quirky and cute but I admit I don’t get the squid bit
Thanks, Victoria. Quirky is a good word to describe it. Thanks for telling me you’re confused over the squid part–squids use ink, ink is used for writing.
I envisioned my logo to be a squid writing out the name…
Thanks for your two cents…I’m still thinking…
I really like it – cute, fun and quirky! Alliteration for the win!
Ooh, you like the alliteration. Good to know. Thanks for chiming in.
I like the quirkiness, but I personally think it’s too complicated. I would say most successful businesses have a simple, memorable name. Think ‘Amazon’. If you’re set on having ‘Writing Studio’ in the name, then how about ’4am Writing Studio’? 4am is kind of your brand, and it has real meaning for you.
I liked the quirkiness, too–but you’re right. It is a mouthful.
Interesting. I did toy with 4am Writing Studio, but then I thought people might be turned off at the idea of writing at such an ungodly hour, lol.
But it’s helpful to hear that you think it would be a good name to use…
I actually think that rather than turning people off, it makes you sound hard working – no lazy person would consider writing at 4am, so you must be someone who works hard to get the job done, whatever time of day it is!
Oh! Of course. Why didn’t I think of it like that? That’s a really good point. I guess I’m so accustomed to the 4am gig that it really doesn’t seem that impressive anymore. It’s just the way I have to do it. But, I’m glad other people see it differently.
When I first read the post title I thought it said ‘My muse needs a robot’
You could understand my confusion when I read the post.
I don’t get the squid thing, but I like. Not so keen on the scribbling… Thinking about squids, ink comes to mind. Thinking about ink, fountain pen comes to mind, and from there, writing.
Maybe throw Ink into the company name- Ink Squid Writing Studio.
That’s my 2 cents.
Great idea you’ve got, setting up a writing studio. I like.
Haha, robot, oh my goodness. You had me laughing out loud.
You’re right about squids and ink and writing. I was envisioning my logo to be of a squid writing out the name in his ink…?
I like your idea. I hadn’t thought of just getting rid of ‘scribbling’. I will add it to my list.
Thanks for your comment, great help!
I LOVE it
Quirky, unique, and unforgettable, which is what you want
Wow, exciting!!!! Good luck honey, can’t wait to hear all about it
Xx
Hi Vikki,
Ah, a vote for yes! Okay, good to know. I’m keeping a running tally of these comments to see what we come up with. I will definitely keep you posted.
Good luck honey, I hope you decide to go with it
Xx
Great idea for your business. I wish you all the success with it.
As for a name: I liked Vanessa and Commander’s ideas. Either one works for me – 4am writing studio fits with your blog, while Squid Ink Writing Studio lends itself more to the kids side of things. Pretty sure you could get a great logo featuring a squid writing with multiple tentacles!
Hi Darren,
Yes, I had the same thoughts for a logo, also. This is helpful to know how you vote; I’m keeping track of all suggestions. My muse is starting to get a little steamed…
I like it—it is fun and quirky. But, Vanessa raises a great point with length. And some people might think a fun and quirky name doesn’t sound professional, even for a creative business like this. It might also be difficult for some people to say when they’re telling friends and family about it.
The Writing Studio part is really good, and I think it reflects the variety of offerings you’ll have. And I like Vanessa’s suggestion of using your brand, 4amWriter, as part of it, too. “4am Writer’s Studio” (or pluralize to 4am Writers’ Studio) is another twist on a potential name.
Whatever name you choose, it sounds like a great place to be, and I wish you lived near me so I could sign up!
And the connection I make with squid is ink, too. And it’s not far from scribe…. :0
Hey JM,
That’s what I was thinking too–it is a mouthful. Then I wondered if people would automatically shorten it to just Scribbling Squid? But still, seems like a lot.
Another vote for the 4am–interesting. I did think about that, but dismissed it. I’m definitely going to revisit that idea.
Oh, you’re sweet. That would be fun. Although you and I probably wouldn’t get any work done because we’d be chatting about the Lehen the whole time.
Yes–you got it. Squid=ink=writing.
My muse is tapping her foot right now…
I just to add that I second Mayumi’s offering to get the word out when you get up and running. Would you consider some web-based offerings that writers who live further away could take?
Also, even if you don’t use squid or ink in the name, the squid would still be a great logo!
(And Madeleine and Jack are saying, “Hey, remember us?! The story ain’t all about the Lehen!”
)
Thank you so much, JM. Yes, that idea is in the making–to reach out to anyone and work via the internet/email in whatever capacity is needed. In fact, I have so many ideas running around my head that I know I need to keep it versatile and flexible to allow room for growth. I won’t be able to launch all of my ideas at once, but over time I’d like to add a service here, a service there.
I’m loving the idea of a squid for a logo—and you’re right. I guess I can still use it even if the name isn’t related to squids.
Haha, so funny. After I posted my reply, I thought the exact same thing–that I neglected Maddie and Jack! Sorry you guys–you’re still number one in my book.
I love any kind of giant sea creature reference, so I need to high five the squid name. But I like Darren’s suggestion of going with something like “Squid Ink Writing Studio” to simplify the name a little and to be more direct about a potential ‘ink’ reference. Whatever you choose, best of luck for a great writing business!
Hi Annie, I know–sea creatures are hard to resist for us East coast girls.
I am marking down your vote. This is turning interesting! Thanks so much for commenting!
I’d have to say, not crazy about the name. Too long, for one. It also sounds very “kid” — which is okay if you’re not doing any writing with/for adults. I do like the suggestion of using 4am.
Scribbling Squid actually makes me think of doing Japanese calligraphy — probably because of the ink, and because ‘scribbling’ to me, has more of an art feel than a writing feel.
Good luck in the endeavor!
It is too long. The more I think about it, way too long. I definitely agree that it leans toward a “kid” sound. Right now all I’m teaching are kids. I don’t know if I could ‘teach’ adults, but I would like to be available to adults for consultations and other writing services. So, yes, the idea of a squid scribbling could be a turn-off for adults. Although, I can’t imagine why!
Another vote for 4am! Wow, I really wouldn’t have guessed that one at all. Okay, I’m adding it to the list…
Good point about the ‘scribbling’. I hadn’t thought of that…
Thanks for chiming in. I need all the help I can get.
First, congratulations on taking this step! It is not an easy one, but it sounds like you are in the right place to make it start happening.
As for the name, there are good points from the other commenters, notably about length, alliteration, cleverness, and name recognition (both positive and critical). The simplicity is a good angle to take, but that doesn’t mean a long name doesn’t always work; if you really want to keep a longer name, there are ways to shorten it to meet both criteria of “Muse wants this” and “Keep it Simple”; you can probably find a way. For example, “Metro Goldwyn Mayer” is a mouthful, while “MGM” is simple enough to remember, and to say. That said, if you haven’t done so already, you might want to look through your bookshelf and take a look at some of the company names there, or try to remember what you like (or don’t) about a movie studio’s name/logo.
Scott Free, the Scotts’ (Ridley and Tony) film studio, has always been one of my personal favorites, because it’s so simple and has name recognition. Skywalker Ranch, while not quite the same type of studio, has a longer name, but it has recognizable associations for the owner (George Lucas, of “Star Wars” fame).
Whatever you decide, it should be a fit for you. You’re not going to want to have to live with a name you don’t like! And, you don’t want to change the name mid-go.
Good luck! When you need us to start spreading the word for clients, don’t be shy about speaking up. We can fill up your appointment book with a waiting list.
Hey Mayumi,
Thank you. I am looking forward to really getting this project going. I think it will be fun.
Yes! All the commenters have been very helpful, and I like that now I’m thinking a little more loosely about the name.
I have never heard of Scott Free–how clever! See, that’s what I was aiming for, simple, clever, name related to nature of biz.
Right, I definitely don’t want to change it–especially since I’ll probably have to get it listed through the state.
Oh, you are very sweet. I probably will need some shout-outs here and there.
Thanks for a great comment.
I like the name. I suspect it’s squid because of the ink. But does this give the impression that your ink is fired in blotches? It works and does give you an immediate idea for a logo/brand idea along the squid lines! And other tag lines – spread your tentacles (hahaha).
Haha, sometimes I think my ink is fired in blotches!
Yes, squid is because of ink which leads to writing. And a logo would be easy to come up with as you say. Oh, I love ‘spread your tentacles’. See, this is a fun name to play around with, and it offers lots of visuals. That’s why I think it could work. Thanks for your vote. I will add it to my list.
Kate – many apologies. I realized I am coming off sounding like a pompous jerk in my recent comments. I would blame it on dealing with entitled university students all day long these past few weeks, but, really, there is no excuse.
This writing studio idea is a very good one. It would serve to your strengths as both a writer and editor. And you are a great commenter/critiquer, as well; I’ve seen that even in the smaller notes you’ve given me.
One thing that really stuck with me is that the name is actually a fun one for kids. If they’re going to be your primary focus, I think the name works. It might end up becoming “Scribblin’ Squid” (I chuckle to think of a child with a lisp saying it), but it appeals to a gentler side of writing, if you will.
I love the idea of a place where kids’ work is showcased and nurtured. I wish I’d had that, as a child.
Mayumi, my goodness, those thoughts never ran through my mind! I thought your comment was great, very helpful indeed.
You raise a great point–the name is suitable for kids, so I think I could get a big draw from that population. However, I don’t want to limit myself and I envision offering writing/editing services to adults. So, as other people pointed out, is that name too playful for adults? It is something to be considered.
I think it’s important to encourage kids to publicize their work, too. My hope with the website is to allow kids’ family and friends to visit, read, and comment on the stories/poetry/essays.
Thanks for ANOTHER wonderful comment.
I like it, but if you want something with a little less head-scratchability (like how I created a new word there) what if it became Scribbling Scribe Writing Studio and then you used an image of a Squid holding pens, paper and ink as your logo.
Love your new word.
Ooh, good, another suggestion. This is just burning my muse right now! I will add your idea to the list. Wonderful help, thanks so much Lisa.
Kate, I’ve had the same problem when I’ve tried to come up with names for things. My first thought was, like many of the commenters: Squid. Ink. Got it. But maybe that wouldn’t be some people’s first thought??
I quite like it. But it’s true that we’ve had the kids at various places for dance or soccer or whatever, and the easier the better–so that when parents or adults tell others about your business, it’s easy (ie. Triangle Dance Arts Academy vs. Cary Ballet). Something like “Ink It” may seem simple to you, but people will have an easy time passing the info along.
Good luck with getting everything off the ground! So exciting!
Hi Anne,
Yes, squid =ink. And you’re right, many people don’t get the connection on first read. Which I’m okay with, but may not be helpful in the long run.
I’m feeling more and more that it is too much of a mouthful. And you’re right, simpler is better which means it’s easy to remember.
Oh, I like “Ink It” actually. I will add this to the list.
Hear that? My muse just stomped her foot.
I like it because it’s different and quirky! I also like Annie’s suggestion for Squid Ink writing studio. Whatever you decide, it all sounds exciting and I look forward to hearing more!
Hi Coleen,
Okay, another vote for Squid Ink. This is great! I love how you all have popped in to offer up suggestions. I was really feeling incapable of making a decision I could feel confident with. Thank you so much!
Cute, but I agree with Vanessa’s suggestion 4am Writer’s Studio or something similar.
Good luck!!!
Hi Denise,
Another vote for 4am–that one seems to be taking the lead so far. I really would not have guessed that 4am would be popular. I am really happy I decided to post this and seek your help! Thanks so much.
I’ve been wondering how this is going and waiting for a follow up blog about it!
Have you come up with an official name yet?
Hey Denise–thanks for checking in on me
I think I may have come to a final decision. I will be posting the announcement soon, so stay tuned! 
It works. Surprisingly, I think I understand the squid part. You have a lot of hats to wear and like most freelance writers we’d love another self or a few extra arms so we could be blogging, connecting, reasearching, writing our short stories, and editing all at the same time. I picture a squid smashed in a tiny room working frantically on seven desks at once with one tentacle scratching its head. But, it’s your gig!
Hi Bob,
You know what, I never thought about the idea of multiple legs to reflect the various activities I’m involved in. So, that is really cool! The original connection was that squid have ink and we use ink to write. But I love that you added this extra connection.
Haha, that’s a wonderful image and actually is almost too true of my life!
Thanks so much for your vote…
Congratulations on working towards a writing business.
I want to like your muse’s suggestion, but I think the ‘scribbling’ might make the name a tad too long. What everyone else is saying rings true with me. I would suggest adding ‘s so you end up with ‘Squid’s Ink Writing Studio’. Darren suggested a logo with each tentacle writing and I can see that working, but I also think the tentacles could be multitasking e.g., writing, coaching, editing etc.
Hey Justin,
Yes, I’m starting to think it is ‘scribbling’s’ fault. I still like the idea of a squid because of the connection to ink. And you’re right, there is a lot I can do with a logo. Squids are turning out to be quite user-friendly. Thanks so much for your suggestion. I’m adding it to the list…
Squid make ink, ink is used in writing (although the Italians use squid ink to make delicious pasta dishes but that’s for a different blog).
Thne name is catchy but I’m an old gomer and have come increasingly to dislike cute. Keep the words scribbling and studio; ditch squid.
By the by, have you contacted the adult ed programs in the public schools in communities where you live?
Tony, you need to write about squid ink and pasta. I never knew that! And yes, you are right with the reason for choosing squid. Yeah, cute can be annoying. I hear you.
I have not contacted the adult ed programs, mainly because I don’t think I could teach adults anything. I could certainly advertise my editing services, but I doubt I’d be able to hold a class for grown-ups.
Thanks for swinging by, T. Hope everything is going swimmingly for you.
I get the squid part — ink. It’s a fun name, but like the others, it seems to target young adults. Either way, I’m looking forward to your new business — am interested to participate in your ‘class’.
Hey there! Yes, it’s fun–but too fun probably. Some adults might not even venture to learn more because it does have a childish ring to it.
Oh, thanks for your kinds words and your encouragement. I’m looking forward to getting it going. I have lots of ideas, but of course until I get a name established, my ideas are just going to sit there!
Thanks for chiming in.
Kate, this one is so simple. What author name do you want on your books? I recommend, “Author name writer’s studio.” Good luck on your decision.
Hi Christy,
Yes, I could do that. I guess I was afraid it wasn’t interesting enough. My name isn’t all that pizzazzy
But it’s worth jotting down on my list. Thanks for your help, Christy!
Stephen King has a common name — he did okay. LOL! Happy to help, Kate.
That’s true!
I have to admit I didn’t think ink at all – I thought lots of tentacles with a pen in each, scribbling away at multiple pieces of writing.
Hi Rachel–you know what, a couple of other commenters said the same thing. And it’s something I didn’t think of. But I like the image a lot. I think the logo could be an easy one to design. Thanks for your input.
The scribbling reference is child-friendly and it’s a brillinat link idea with the ‘squid’s ink’ but think you could keep it just as simple as that – with ‘the scribbling studio’ as a byline. Scribbling squid would be hard to say after just 2 glasses of wine
Look forward to the launch 
Hi Laura,
oh my gosh, you are too funny. You’re right! It’s the kind of name anyone would slur instead of say if they had a little to drink, lol. Yes, I think simpler is the way to go. Thank you for your input and I’m jotting down your suggestion…
Kathryn, how are you? I didn’t think of the ink part (makes perfect sense now that you mentioned it), but i thought of multi-tasking (absolutely what you will be doing) right away. I think the squid works for sure. Scribbling Squid Studio sounds great to me.
Hi Kathryn,
I didn’t think of the multi-tasking part either–but it would be very appropriate. Thank you for your input. I will add it to my list. (My muse is liking you especially right now.
)
Have a super day.
I didn’t get a chance to read all the comments, but I do agree with those who mentioned the name is fun and unique, but that it might also be a mouthful. And although I understood the squid reference, some might not, and instead picture a slimy creature when they hear the name. Then again, a scribbling squid could be a cute logo.
That being said, I can only imagine how difficult a decision this can be, and I wish you the best of luck with the business!
Hey Carrie,
Yes, I’m thinking more and more it’s too complicated, and even though I like the originality, I agree that simple is better.
Thanks for the input–I sure don’t want the business to be referred to as that “slimy creature writing studio”
Although it would rouse curiosity!
That it would!
I immediately made the connection between squid and ink, and the potential for a cute squid logo is certainly there. It is a very clever idea. Scribbling has a casual and not necessarily positive connotation for serious writing, but I can’t think of anything better. My concern is that this logo and branding would peg you solely as a teacher/ writer for kids, and if you ever wanted to do serious work with/for adults, it might be more difficult to be taken seriously. I love the 4AM Writing Studio idea, but it might not be so good for kids.
I guess this is why I haven’t gotten around to doing my own author website! You have many good ideas. Do what your instincts tell you to do, and make it the best you can, and it will be great.
Hi Naomi,
I think you may be right about the 4am label not being a great draw for kids. Thanks for mentioning that. This one sure is a thinker, and I’m really glad I posted this to get some outside opinions. You all have me thinking at this from different angles, which I really needed to do.
My muse has retreated into her creative space in the past few minutes. I think she’s back to work…
I vote for 4am Writing Studio, or Inky Squid Writing Studio. I agree that sticking with a brand you’ve already created is a smart idea, but all those inky squids ideas are just so fun!
Hi Jessie,
And 4am is already established, so it would make things easier probably.
Okay, I’m jotting down your votes. I know, the squid is a hard habit to break.
Thanks for commenting.
Oh, I thought the squid reference came from the fact that you are doing so many different things at once in your life, just as, uh, a squid can simultaneously do different tasks with different tentacles. But yeah, the ink angle is probably a bit more intuitive.
Hi Chris,
A few other people thought that too–something that didn’t occur to me. But it is quite fitting. It’s nice to know I have a couple of ways to go with it.
Haha, how amazing would that be if a squid could do different tasks simultaneously? One for the record books.
Say that name 10 times fast and you’ll get Squiddling Scrib. Just kidding. I like the name. It’s catchy and fun for kids. I didn’t get the ink part about squid’s until you said it in another comment. Do squids squirt ink like octopuses? I think this is a great step you’re taking. Hope it builds big for you.
Hey Char,
Yes, squids have ink just like the octopus. Squiddling Scrib is actually very cool. I just might have to add it on for laughs.
Thanks for commenting.
Actually, I like it. I have no idea of r he significance of the squid, but so long as there is significance, it doesn’t matter if I don’t. Or if others don’t, because its something you can talk about and use to spark conversations.
Also, it sounds like a grand idea. Quite excited to see your business take off now there is more time to devote to it. Frankly put, its nice to know other people have plans like that as it makes me feel less like my half baked plans are impossible.
Hi Ileandra,
What I liked best about the name was that it indeed sparked conversations. It made things interesting. But I am afraid it’s too long and bulky.
Oh my goodness, seeing as how you have both hands full with 2 babies, your plans need only to be delayed a wee bit longer. Never impossible!
Thanks for your vote.
First off – great idea and good luck with the business!
I like 4am and (not that I dislike Scribbling Squid – I just think it’s a bit of a mouthful and also sounds like its focussed more on children) agree with Vanessa 4am Writing Studio. When I first saw 4am writer I thought ‘Wow – this person works a lot’!
Would I hire services from Scribbling Squid or 4am Writer? I think I’d go with 4am Writer. Just my thoughts 
Hi Dianne,
Haha–I seem to be hearing that a lot with the 4am signifying hard work. Maybe that will scare people off!
It’s like the military.
This is becoming tougher and tougher, but I’m really glad I turned to you all for your advice because you brought up points I hadn’t considered.
I logged your vote to the list.
It IS tough! I’m having the same issue with the cover of my latest novel. I like it and my friends like it but my editor doesn’t – it’s getting to be a bit of a nightmare
Oh gosh, sounds like you are definitely in a corner with that one. Hopefully you can all come to an agreement!
I like that name, it’s fun and unique
Thanks!
I will put down your vote…
I think it’s a lovely name; I’m not sure if it’s perfect. Like others I like the alliteration It took me a bit to pick up on the squid bit, but that’s clever. Whatever anyone may think of it, the name is interesting enough to attract attention and be memorable. I suppose whether or not you stroke your muse’s ego and hope she comes up with something better or not is up to you. If I were sinking money into anything that carried the name, though, I’d want to make sure I felt confident in my choice.
I do think of Scribbling Squid’s Writing Studio being more appealing for a younger set, and I’m not sure what you’re going for. I like 4amWriter as a blog name and found it appealing when I first saw it (well, and now obviously). Honestly, however, I’m not sure that appeal crosses over as a business name.
Hi twisting,
thank you for your kind words. And it’s true–above all, I need to feel confident in the name as this will be a business.
Now that you say that 4am might not cross over well as a business name, I think you’re onto something. That’s exactly what niggles me about 4am Writer’s Studio. Hmm. I definitely have a lot to think about.
Thank you for your input–it’s really helpful.
I love it, but it’s a mouth full. I always try to imagine answering the phone many many times a day and saying the name. Would it work, would it get twisted on my tongue.
I like Scribbling Studio. I like 4am Writing Studio ( I like that very much, that will always remind me of you.) Or your name.
But most importantly, congratulations.
Hey Kate,
Yes! When I say it out loud to myself, I do tend to stumble over the words a bit–which is definitely not businesslike.
Another vote for 4am, I’m jotting it down. I like your idea of Scribbling Studio, too…
Thanks for the congrats and the comment.
I like the idea of the squid for the logo, but also think that “Ink it” is a simpler name that can appeal to both children and adults. And you could still use the squid as a logo. I think a lot of people would get the link between squid and ink and it’s cute without being too cute.
Ooh, another vote for Ink It. Okay, I’ll put that down. Right, I don’t want to be overly cute because I want to appeal to the masses, kids and adults alike. It’s good to know that squid is still alive and kicking as a logo idea.
Thanks for your vote.
Can’t wait to see what you decide. I’m also going through a name change. I think I’ve outgrown the name Buddhafulkat. Not sure if I’ll shift to a new identity sooner or later in the year.
I always loved your name, Buddhafulkat. But I know what you mean by ‘outgrow’. I kind of hope I’ll ‘outgrow’ 4am in some ways. The idea of spending the rest of my life getting up at 4 to write is a little nervewracking!
I have always loved it. It’s so different and like you said, cute. And you have a constant client with me :p I have a few projects coming your way soon.
Hey Ottie,
Thanks!
I think it definitely has its good points in originality and appeal to the younger writers (and young-at-heart writers).
Oh, goodie! Can’t wait to see what you’ve been working on.
Congrats on the new venture. Very exciting! I agree with the others who feel the name seems geared towards children, and I know you want adult clients, too. I also think that the emphasis on “ink” gives an old-fashioned feel to your business (ink pen versus technology), and that might be what you want. Adding the “4am” to the name could lead clients to this website, which you may or may not want. I vote for Kathryn (or Kate) Johnston Writing Studio, as someone else noted above. If you weren’t a writer seeking publication, then I’d think differently about having a fun name for the business. But this keeps your name out front. You could then create a logo that is both adult and child friendly. A tag line could also infer the type of clientele you’re seeking. My two cents!
Hi Darla,
I appreciate your chiming in on this. Good to know another person thinks my name would be a good idea. I just never really gave it that much thought. Now I will.
I realise I am weighing in a bit late here (!), but for what it’s worth…My first impression was that it is too much of a mouthful. But when I read your explanation of squid ink and the logo, that seemed to change things. I like the suggestion others made of Squid Ink – could you just go with Squid Ink Studio? That says ‘writing is fun’ to me….
Hi Alarna,
It’s never too late! Especially as I’m still thinking about what to do, lol. Yes, I definitely agree that it’s too long of a name. Squid Ink is an interesting alternative, and it means I can keep my idea of a logo. Okay, thanks–I’m adding your vote in.
I think it works. The squid’s ink makes perfect sense. it also opens the door for some pretty cool company logo’s.
Hi Dennis,
Okay! Good to have your vote. I’m adding it in.
Thank you.
I think that Scribbling Squid Writing Studio is a great name for a business aimed at kids. I can see a squid with huge eyes holding a pen, it is a very visual image which will appeal to children. It will get shortened to Scribbling Squid with folks who have been using you for a while but by then they will know that it’s a writing studio anyway. New people will call it Scribbling Squid Writing Studio until they’ve been visiting for a while. I think I’m late in seeing this and if you’ve already chosen the name just pretend I’m not here. Good luck with the business.
Hey Loony, no you’re not too late. I am still in decision-making mode. You’re right in that people familiar with the name will shorten it automatically, so that’s good. I do like the idea of the logo, so I’m feeling I’ll do pretty much anything to keep that, lol. Thanks for your vote, and I’m adding it in!
I’m glad I’m not too late. An example of what I am saying is that my son attends a drama school called Duckegg Theatre Company. All the people who go regularly just call it Duckegg, in fact the kids call themselves Duckeggs. Also, it’s amazing how people remember it – like Scribbling Squid.
Oh my goodness–I love the name Duckegg. That is quite memorable!
I think it’s very clever. I especially like the ‘ink’ analogy. The only negative I can see would be that ‘Scribbling Squid’ gives off a ‘kids only’ vibe, and adults may not realize that it’s a business for them as well. Best of luck with it =)
Hey Nancy,
Yes, that is a snafu, as I definitely want to reach a wide range of people. Thanks for chiming in!
It definitely makes me stop and think. How would a squid scribble? And could it scribble multiple things at once? I like it. I also like 4 am Writing Studio though it makes me think it’s about the weird things you write after a night out. But I am not a morning person so I’d be coming home at 4 am. Never getting up.
Hey Kourtney, haha! Gosh, writing weird things after a night out–definitely NOT where I want the studio to go. Thanks for the tip.
Ohh how exciting! Don’t forget that you can promote as much as you like on Limebird! I can definitely see the appeal with the name is it’s aimed at kids. However I also like Squid Ink, but don’t forget Limebird is perfect example of a name which has no real reason or relation to writing but somehow it still works.
If you did keep Scribbling Squid, I think that people would definitely shorten it and forget about the writing studio bit, but that might not necesarily be a bad thing. Scribbling could denote writing and the alliteration is catchy. It’s also quite obvious who your target audience is.
Although I do also like 4am, I think that seems more adult-y to me, rather than kids. It also depends whether you want it separate to this website, as this (4am writer) may come up when people search online.
If you need any help with PR/Marketing or promoting and getting your website to the top of Google etc, give me a shout.
*necessarily
I also just realised it’s not just for kids, it’s adults too. D’oh. I wish there was an edit button on comments so I could edit mine. Also, I made another typo… ” name is it’s” meant to be if… please ignore my million comments. Anyways, my point still stands, Limebird has nothing to do with writing and it’s alright!
Oh if you want to use Limebird then you are very free to use it (not that you would want it and it’s completely separate than your blogging life, but the offer is there)
Haha, don’t worry about the comment editing–this is actually good to get your immediate take on it. I think the general consensus seems to be that it sounds more like a biz aimed for kids only.
That’s a good point about Limebird and how the name isn’t related to writing. Maybe I have to be less stodgy about this whole thing?
Another good point about the 4am website confusion, because I was wondering about that too. If they Google the studio but click the link for my blog that could be an irritating enough of a detour that I could lose potential clients.
Thank you SO much for your offer to use Limebird as a place to promote. I’m sure I’ll take you up on it.
I get the inkyness (of course) but I think it’s also clever because a squid has eight arms and two lon tentacles, How prolific (along with the ink) that would make a person re: writing lol, Great Post, Penny
Hey Penny,
Thanks for chiming in on this. I need all the great input I can get! I will add your vote to the pile.
I love the idea of your business (have had a similar model in mind for myself, but cannot foresee it taking shape at least for a couple of years…perhaps I’ll be writing you for advice!) Not sure about the “squid”, but it is different, and standing out is always a good thing…branding wise, it would also be great (graphically) if you eventually are running kids’ workshops etc. I’ll think about names and if anything jumps out at me, I’ll reply again. In the meantime, am going to take a look at what others have suggested for you. How exciting! Good luck, my friend, I’m sure your new venture will be a great success!
I get excited about this, too. Sometimes the ideas overwhelm the actual action, though. So, it will be good to finalize the name and move on to the next step. I appreciate your input, and I’m logging it in to my list! Thanks for stopping by and commenting.
Jumping in really late here, and I only read a few of the comments, but I love it! You could take out writing and go full-force with the alliteration, which to me would be an attractive name for a place that works with kids. Scribbling Squid Studio. I got the ink reference, but only after you prompted that there was a reason. A logo would fix that instantly, though.
I would also be happy to help promote your business if that works in an online forum–or I’m a former newspaper person and like to play around with press releases. If you want local paper coverage, and want to send me a draft of one, I’d be happy to offer suggestions!
Hey Laura,
Thanks so much for the offer of promotion! I will certainly take you up on that once I get everything moving in that direction. As I have no experience with press releases, your help will be doubly appreciated!
I love doing press releases, Kate! So just shout my way when you’re ready.
Thanks, Laura.
I just skimmed through the comments but overall I agree. It is a wonderful and clever name! The only problem, as already discussed, it that it kind of gives a “kids only” vibe. Maybe you could have one name for the main studio, which includes adults and children, and then name the “children” section Scribbling Squid?
Hey Fredrik,
Yes, I’m thinking the same thing–that the kids’ section could be named separately as scribbling squid or something to that effect. I will be posting soon about my final decision! Thanks for your vote.